Real Madrid may have walked away from their clash with Real Betis without the result they wanted, but one statistic perfectly highlights how heavily their build-up depended on the centre-backs.
Dean Huijsen and Ibrahima Konaté were the two Real Madrid players who recorded the most touches during the encounter, underlining just how involved the defensive duo were in controlling possession and initiating attacks from deep.
Huijsen registered an impressive 101 touches, while Konaté followed closely behind with 89.
That is a remarkable figure for two centre-backs and a clear indication of how Madrid attempted to construct their attacks. Rather than simply sitting behind the ball and focusing on defensive duties, both defenders repeatedly demanded possession, carried responsibility in the build-up and looked to move the team forward.
Huijsen in particular displayed tremendous confidence when receiving the ball under pressure. His composure allowed Madrid to maintain possession from the back and search for openings further up the pitch.
Konaté offered a similar presence, using his strength and passing ability to help Madrid progress through the first phase of possession.
The numbers tell an interesting story.
While the attacking players naturally attracted most of the attention, Madrid’s centre-backs were effectively acting as the starting point of almost everything the team attempted to create. Their willingness to take responsibility on the ball gave the midfielders and forwards a platform to operate from.
Unfortunately for Madrid, controlling possession does not always guarantee victory.
Despite the impressive involvement of their defenders, Madrid ultimately suffered a 1-0 defeat against Betis after Troy Parrott found the decisive goal late in the match.
The result was frustrating, particularly because Madrid created opportunities and pushed hard for an equaliser. Their late penalty also presented Kylian Mbappé with a golden opportunity, but Álvaro Valles produced the save that secured all three points for Betis.
Still, the performances of Huijsen and Konaté provided one major positive.
Modern centre-backs are expected to do far more than defend. They must be comfortable receiving the ball, breaking lines, resisting pressure and launching attacks, and Madrid’s defensive pairing demonstrated exactly that.
The defeat may have exposed areas Madrid need to improve, but their ability to build confidently from the back remains a major weapon.
Madrid starts from the back.
And against Betis, their centre-backs certainly made sure everyone noticed.
